Studies

Master's degree (2 years)
Full time
Aquaculture

The aquaculture industry is an innovation driven industry with a lot of possibilities; both within business and research.

Apply here

Application deadline:

April 15th
International applicants:
December 1st

Start of Studies:

Autumn

Requirements:

A bachelor's degree or equivalent

  • Requirements in detail

    To apply for this master's program, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Aquaculture or equivalent education that includes foundational knowledge in science and biology. If you come from an engineering or other relevant background—your application will be evaluated individually.

    What’s required for the application to be considered? A strong motivation letter tailored specifically to this program and a weighted average grade of at least Norwegian C from your Bachelor’s degree.

    English language ability in accordance with the NMBU regulations

    Applicants who have already completed a master degree will not be prioritized.

Akvakultur
Fiskefôr

The study starts with an introductory course in sustainability and animal welfare in aquaculture before continuing with courses in fish physiology and applied aquaculture.

The aim of the study is to provide students with practical and theoretical knowledge in various fields, before they complete their master's thesis within a focus area, which can be chosen from genetics and breeding, fish nutrition, production technology or another area of interest, e.g. water or product quality.

The master's thesis project normally lasts six months or a year and offers great flexibility in terms of project type and location.

See study plan

Career opportunities

Our candidates could work as managers in the farming industry, quality control, feed production, advisory positions within both private and public authorities, product development and research into new technology, feed and equipment for the aquaculture industry.

The master's degree also provides the opportunity for an academic career.

 

Jenny Dahlberg - Working with sustainable protein sources

Markus Antonsen - Wants to move farmed salmon to open sea

Elise Olafsen - Build your network within the industry while you study

Erika Hanson - The teachers clearly know the aqua industry well

  • Learning outcomes

    A candidate who has completed the education is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes, defined in knowledge, skills and competence:

    Knowledge:

    • Gain the skills to bridge theory and practice, tackling real-world challenges like resource-efficient food production, environmental impact, and animal welfare.
    • Develop problem-solving expertise in aquaculture production and innovative business development.
    • Master the tools to address complex sustainability issues within the aquaculture industry.
    • Build the ability to synthesize and apply knowledge to navigate and solve intricate aquaculture challenges.

    Skills

    • Have in-depth knowledge in one or both fields: production biology and production technology applied in aquaculture
    • Be able to apply the obtained knowledge to solve practical, administrative, and strategic aquaculture challenges, participate in development and research tasks, and stay updated on advancements and innovations within the field.

    Competence:

    • Use your knowledge to tackle real-world challenges in aquaculture, from hands-on problem-solving to administrative and strategic tasks.
    • Get involved in exciting development projects and research that shape the future of the industry.
    • Stay ahead by keeping up with the latest innovations and breakthroughs in aquaculture.
    • With these skills, you’ll be ready to make a real impact in one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-growing industries!
  • Exchange possibilities

    NMBU has agreements with universities abroad, offering you the opportunity to participate in exchange programs – i.e. parts of the program may be completed abroad. You can also take on projects with international industry companies, gaining valuable practical experience, providing a possibility to build your network and develop your skills in a global context.

  • Program structure

    In the master's program, you'll dive into compulsory subjects like Sustainable Aauaculture, Fish physiology, and Applied aquaculture, along with a master's thesis of either 30, 45, or 60 ECTSs. Additionally, you can customize your degree with exciting electives such as:

    • Fish Health
    • Behavioral Biology
    • Fish Breeding and Genetics
    • Fish Nutrition and Sustainable Feed Ingredients
    • Product Quality
    • Operations Management
    • Design and Construction of RAS Facilities

    Hence, this program offers a comprehensive and adaptable education, providing the practical and theoretical foundation needed to excel in the evolving field of aquaculture.

  • More about the program
    • Societal relevance

      Aquaculture is the fastest-growing form of food production in the world and plays a key role in global food security. By studying aquaculture, you will have the opportunity to contribute to sustainable food production that balances technology, biology, and fish welfare. This field is suited for you who want to develop innovative solutions and make a meaningful impact on sustainable global food systems. With hands-on experience and a strong focus on the future of the industry, this education opens doors to exciting career opportunities worldwide.

    • Learning activities
      Teaching methods are varied and include lectures, field trips, group work, independent studies and exercises and seminars by students.
    • Examination
      Final oral or written examinations, assigment or continuous assessment or portfolio.
    • Information for students from partner universities
      Lectures are given in English.

Study advisor(s):

Gisken Trøan

Gisken Trøan

Senior Advisor

Stine Telneset

Senior Advisor